The Ukrainian military announced the destruction of the Russian submarine Rostov-on-Don. According to the Ukrainian General Staff, the Kilo-class submarine of the Russian Black Sea Fleet sank on August 2, 2024, during a missile attack on the port city of Sevastopol.
Built-in 2014, the Rostov-on-Don is one of four submarines in the Black Sea Fleet capable of launching Kalibr cruise missiles. If the attack is confirmed, it would be a serious blow to Russia’s naval capabilities in the Black Sea.
Kyiv claims that the submarine sank shortly after the attack. The Russian Ministry of Defense has not yet responded to the incident. Plus, CNN has been unable to verify the claim independently.
In addition to the attack on the submarine, the Ukrainian military also announced the destruction of four S-400 air defense systems. These systems were reportedly built to protect the peninsula, which Russia illegally invaded in 2014.
Ukraine Destroys And Sinks A Russian Submarine Anchored In Crimea
The Ukrainian Ministry of Defense welcomed the attack. The destruction of the equipment would reduce airspace restrictions over Crimea, making Ukrainian air operations more effective.
The Ukrainian attack on Rostov-on-Don follows a series of successful Ukrainian operations against the Russian fleet in the Black Sea.
Ukrainian officials say their forces have inflicted heavy losses on the fleet. Estimating that a third of Russian naval vessels in the Black Sea have been disabled or destroyed.
The worst loss suffered by the Russian Navy during the conflict was the sinking of the missile cruiser “Moscow” in April 2022.
The latest wave of long-range Ukrainian attacks includes an alleged attack on the Morozovsk airport in the Rostov region of Russia. Ukrainian drones reportedly attacked ammunition depots and caused severe damage to infrastructure.
The escalation of Ukrainian attacks comes as pressure grows on Western allies to provide Kyiv with long-range missiles. Even the United States and other partners are wary of providing such support for fear of escalating tensions with Russia.
Separately, a Ukrainian drone attack on an apartment building in Shchebikino, Belgorod Oblast. Reportedly killed one person and injured several others.
Ukrainian authorities have also asked the International Committee of the Red Cross and the United Nations to investigate alleged violations of Ukrainian prisoners of war by Russian troops.
Ukraine continues to launch attacks, and the situation remains volatile, with serious consequences for regional security and international relations.
